Awashima Shrine
About This Destination
Awashima Shrine stands near the sea in the Kada district on the western edge of Wakayama City. It enshrines Sukunahikona, a deity linked to medicine, along with Okinagatarashihime, and is visited for prayers relating to women's health and safe childbirth. The shrine is best known for the thousands of dolls placed throughout its grounds, brought from across Japan for memorial rites rather than being discarded. Each year on March 3, the Hina-nagashi ceremony sends dolls out to sea on small wooden boats after a Shinto blessing. Dolls are accepted for memorial only in person, during set hours. The shrine is a walk from Kada Station and looks out toward the islands of Tomogashima.
Location
Prefecture: Wakayama
Address: Wakayama, Japan
Nearest Station: Kada Station
Best time to visit: March 3 for the Hina-nagashi doll-floating ceremony; open year-round
Visitor Information
Credit Cards: Unknown
Access
Wakayama, Japan
Get DirectionsFrequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Awashima Shrine?
It is about a 20-minute walk from Kada Station on the Nankai Kada Line.
Why are there so many dolls at Awashima Shrine?
People bring dolls from all over Japan for memorial services rather than throwing them away, and the shrine holds a doll-floating ceremony each March 3.
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